Australian Certified Organic (ACO)
The Australian Certified Organic (ACO) organization was founded in 1987. ACO is one of the largest and most respected organic certification bodies in Australia. It provides certification services for organic and biodynamic products, ensuring they meet strict organic standards set by the organization. ACO certifies a wide range of products, including food, beverages, skincare, textiles, and more. The certification process involves audits and inspections to verify compliance with organic production and processing standards, giving consumers confidence in the authenticity and integrity of organic products bearing the ACO logo. Here are some key points about the Australian Certified Organic:
-Certification Process: ACO offers certification services for a wide range of organic products, including food, beverages, skincare, cosmetics, textiles, and more. To obtain the ACO certification, producers and manufacturers must meet the strict organic standards set by the organization. This involves demonstrating compliance with organic production methods, including the use of organic inputs, sustainable farming practices, and the absence of synthetic chemicals and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
-Organic Standards: ACO adheres to the National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce, which is a comprehensive set of rules and requirements for organic farming and production in Australia. The standard covers various aspects of organic production, such as soil fertility management, pest and weed control, animal welfare, and processing methods.
-Accreditation: ACO is accredited by leading international and domestic organizations, including the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), the Australian Government's Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, and the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia (NASAA). This accreditation ensures the credibility and integrity of the ACO certification process.
-Inspection and Auditing: ACO conducts regular on-site inspections and audits to verify compliance with organic standards. Trained and qualified inspectors visit the farms and production facilities to assess the practices, inputs, records, and management systems to ensure they meet the organic requirements.
-ACO Logo: Products that have successfully obtained ACO certification are allowed to display the ACO logo on their packaging, indicating their organic status. Consumers can look for the ACO logo when purchasing organic products to ensure they are certified and meet the stringent organic standards.
-Organic Integrity Program: ACO operates an Organic Integrity Program to monitor compliance and maintain the integrity of certified organic products. This program includes random product testing, unannounced inspections, and investigations of complaints or non-compliance.
-Market Access: ACO certification helps organic producers and manufacturers access both domestic and international markets. The ACO certification is recognized and accepted by various industry bodies, retailers, and consumers who trust the integrity of the organic certification process.
The Australian Certified Organic plays a vital role in promoting organic agriculture, supporting organic farmers and businesses, and providing assurance to consumers seeking organic products in Australia.